Re:Create CT, the first holistic and green living event in Hartford’s Elizabeth Park, made an impact. Many visitors familiar with the park’s annual Rose Weekend agreed that this new festival’s turnout rivaled that of the latter. Fifteen minutes after Re:Create CT officially opened, nearly all parking spaces were filled, creating a demand for overflow parking on the grass. This doesn’t account for those who walked or biked. Presented by the CT Holistic Chamber of Commerce, Re:Create CT introduced visitors to activities like drumming, yoga, and sound meditation.

River Rock Yoga led a free class on the lawn, where people were invited to participate as long as they felt comfortable.

The BamBoom Drum Fitness tepee was a magnet for children.

Vendors sold everything from felted wool cat toys to fried dough to wind chimes.

Offerings included speakers on subjects like making seed bombs, food allergies and sensitivities, and avoiding negative energies. Erika Dworkin (pictured below) a certified Lifestyle Educator and Nutrition Consultant at the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe presented information about removing gluten and dairy from one’s diet. She said that “less than 10% of celiacs know they have it,” and when trying to make major dietary changes, one should “go gentle with self.”